I ran my first ever mile back in 7th grade PE class in San Diego and ran my first competition as a freshman in high school. It was a life changing experience that allowed me to find my passion for running.

My first Boston Marathon was in 2006 where the field went out at a World Record pace. Mistakes were made that day, but I learned from those mistakes and came back stronger. I have run the Boston Marathon a total of six times thus far. I ran competitively in 2006, 2010, 2014, 2015, 2017 and then ran for the Martin Richard Foundation in 2018. This year will be lucky number seven running for the MEB Foundation. It will be fun to run the Boston Marathon exactly 10 years after I won in 2014.

As a competitive runner, what excited me the most was to make an Olympic team also, to run a personal best or be on the podium at the major marathons. Now, I love being on the starting line for health and for the interactions I get to have with others. Now, I run for my health and wellness.

The Boston Marathon is like the Olympics for the everyday athlete and the Boston Marathon jacket is like the walking diploma celebrating all of your hard work. It is about celebrating life and the people that got you there and the people that are no longer with us. Enjoy the journey!